Astrantia major

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow into moist well-drained seed compost at 18-22°C for 2-4 weeks. Then cold stratify. Move to -4-+4°C for 4-6 weeks and then return to warmth, 18°C. Germination should occur. If it does not repeat the process. Germination can take many months. Once germinated move to a warm place. Transplant seedlings once large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on at 7°C. Acclimatise for 10-15 days and plant out. Can be sown into pots in late autumn and left outside over winter for spring germination.

Growing

Prefers moist, fertile humus-rich soil in full sun or dappled shade. Water well in dry periods. Roots must be kept moist.

Cultivation

Cut back spent flowers to encourage further blooms. Deadhead before seed is ripe to prevent self-seeding. Propagate by division in spring.